We have identified a novel splice variant of lysyl oxidase-like 2, termed LOXL2Δ72.
LOXL2Δ72 has the same N- and C-termini as wild-type LOXL2, but lacks 72 nucleotides encoding 24 amino acids.
LOXL2Δ72 is no longer secreted, and enzymatic activity is very low.
LOXL2Δ72 promotes ESCC cell migration and invasion to a greater degree than LOXL2WT.
LOXL2Δ72 may contribute to tumor progression via novel molecular mechanisms.